Babies have their entire lives ahead of them. Starting now, there are things you can do to help your baby have a healthy life as they grow. Getting your child vaccinated is a great first step to make sure they live a happy and healthy life.
The CDC recommends 10 important vaccines during the first year of life.
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis)
This vaccine prevents three different diseases that can be dangerous for children. Doctors recommend five doses of DtaP at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 15–18 months
- 4–6 years
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a liver disease that spreads through contact. It causes jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, and stomach pain. This vaccine should be given at 12 months and again 6-18 months after the first shot.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B causes loss of appetite, diarrhea, and long-term infection. Doctors give doses of this vaccine at:
- Birth
- 1–2 months
- 6–18 months
Hib (Meningitis)
This disease is spread from person to person. If the bacteria enters the bloodstream or lungs, it can cause major problems. Doctors recommend doses at
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 12–18 months
Inactivated Poliovirus
Also known as polio, this virus has no symptoms at first. If left untreated, it can lead to paralysis. Children get the polio vaccine at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- between 6–18 months
- between 4–6 years
Influenza (Flu)
The flu is an airborne virus spread mostly in the winter months. It is important to protect your child from the flu. This is why children over six months old should get vaccinated each year.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
This vaccine protects against a group of three diseases that are spread through the air or direct contact. These diseases can cause rashes, swelling, and even deafness. Doctors give the MMR vaccine twice — the first dose is given between 12–15 months, and the second at four years.
Pneumococcal
This disease usually doesn’t show symptoms. When it does, it can lead to lung problems, blood infection, and other issues. Doctors give the vaccine at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 12 months
Rotavirus (RV)
This disease spreads through the mouth. It can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. Doctors give the RV shot at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is spread through direct contact. It causes rash and fever that can lead to major issues. Doctors give the vaccine twice, between 12-15 months and between 4-6 years.
Your benefits
Vaccines are an important part of a young child’s care. Tufts Health Plan covers vaccines and well-child visits as preventive care.
Reach out to Member Services to learn more about your covered benefits.
Tufts Health Together members can call 888-257-1985 (TTY: 711) or tap here to learn more online about your benefits.
Tufts Health RITogether members can call 866-738-4116 (TTY: 711) or tap here to learn more online about your benefits.
Tufts Health Direct members can call 888-257-1985 (TTY: 711) or tap here to learn more online about your benefits.
